Mercy Care, a not-for-profit health plan serving Medicaid and other vulnerable populations across Arizona, has long recognized that health does not begin or end in a doctor’s office. Through its Mercy C.A.R.E.S. program – short for Community Action Resources Education and Service – the organization is investing in the programs and services that shape everyday well-being, from stable housing to equal access to care.

“Over the past 40 years, Mercy Care has invested more than $40 million into programs focused on housing security, food access, mental health, chronic disease management and substance use recovery,” said Trisha Stuart, Mercy Care community relations director. “The approach is rooted in a simple belief: everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthy life and reach their full potential.”

Each year, the program awards grants aligned with four key focus areas:

• Building Basic Needs
• Increasing Health Access
• Managing Chronic Conditions
• Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being

“Together, these pillars reflect a growing understanding that health is connected with environment, access and education,” said Stuart. “Mercy C.A.R.E.S. invests in solutions that address health disparities, close gaps in need, and strengthen families and their support systems.”

That philosophy is especially evident in Mercy Care’s $650,000 in autism services, where early intervention, culturally responsive care and caregiver empowerment will have life-changing impacts.

By way of example, Arizona Autism United received a Mercy C.A.R.E.S. Community Reinvestment Grant to support its Family Support Program. This free service provides ongoing guidance to parents and caregivers of individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities across Arizona. Reaching more than 1,500 families annually, the program offers both English- and Spanish-speaking support from professionals with deep personal and clinical experience. The impact is both immediate and lasting. Families receive help navigating complex systems, accessing therapies and coordinating care, all while gaining the tools to advocate effectively for their children. By reducing barriers and easing the burden on caregivers, the program helps create more stable, supportive environments where children can thrive.

Mercy Care is also investing in new models of care delivery. A grant to Arizona Autism Charter Schools is funding the development of the Arizona Autism Family Medicine – A Valle del Sol Clinic, the state’s first autism-focused primary care clinic. Operated by Valle del Sol, the Center will provide integrated medical and behavioral health services tailored to individuals on the spectrum.

“Designed with accessibility and coordination in mind, the clinic will serve nearly 600 students and their families, while also opening its doors to the broader community,” said Stuart. “Bilingual providers and interdisciplinary teams will address complex, co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, gastrointestinal challenges and seizure disorders.”

Beyond urban centers, Mercy Care is also ensuring that autism support reaches underserved and rural communities. Through a grant awarded to Diné Parents Taking Action Program (ASCEND), the organization is providing access to care for Navajo families. Delivered via the Northern Arizona University Foundation, this telehealth-based initiative is designed to provide autism education, services and support for families living in and around the Navajo Nation.

The evidence-based program has been carefully adapted to reflect the cultural values and experiences of Navajo families. Delivered by trained family advisors who share similar lived experiences, it includes a structured series of lessons covering child development, autism, advocacy in school systems and strategies for managing caregiver stress. Families also have access to monthly support groups and tools such as communication devices to help strengthen language and social development.

“By investing in programs that empower families, expand access and embrace innovation, Mercy Care is helping build a more inclusive and effective systems of care,” said Stuart.

For more information, visit www.mercycareaz.org.